Data Science

As the only undergraduate Data Science degree in the UC system, the major will
prepare students for careers in data analysis by combining foundational
statistical concepts with computational principles from computer science. UCI’s
new Data Science major has a dual emphasis on the principles of both statistics
and computer science, with foundational training in statistical and mathematical
aspects of data analysis, as well as in the broad principles of computer science
(including algorithms, data structures, data management and machine learning).
The program teaches students how to utilize their knowledge of statistical and
computing principles to analyze and solve real-world data analysis problems. The
major is suitable for students interested in either a career in industry or who
wish to pursue more specialized graduate study.

As a Data Science major, you have the unique opportunity to take an
interdisciplinary course of study that includes classes from all three ICS
departments: statistics, computer science and informatics. Classes you will have
the opportunity to take as a Data Science student include:

Programming in C/C++ as a Second Language (ICS)
An introduction to the lexical, syntactic, semantic and pragmatic characteristics of the C/C++ languages, with an emphasis on object-oriented programming, using standard libraries and programming with manual garbage collection.

Statistical Methods for Data Analysis (Statistics)
An exploration of statistical methods for analyzing data from surveys, experiments and cohort studies.

Information Visualization (Informatics)
An introduction to interactive visual interfaces for large data sets, including a foundation on the principles of human visual perception and human computer interaction that inform their design.

The demand for graduates with skills in both statistics and computer science currently outpaces supply. According to a 2011 McKinsey Global Institute study on big data, demand for individuals with data analysis skills will grow to almost 500,000 individuals by 2018, with a projected shortfall of about 200,000 individuals with deep analytical skills, as well as a shortage of 1.5 million managers and analysts to analyze big data and make decisions.

UC Irvine’s Data Science Initiative is a broad initiative with a focus on
coordinating and linking the activities of researchers and students across
campus involved in various aspects of data science. This initiative was founded
in 2014 by the Office of the Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor and is
supported through the Office of Academic Initiatives. One of the goals of the
Data Science Initiative is to support the formation of the new Data Science
major. For more information, visit
datascience.uci.edu